Kauri dieback

Find out about kauri dieback, how it spreads and how you can help protect our native forests.

Controlled Areas in place from 1 May 2018

Waitākere Ranges and parts of the Hunua Ranges

On 1 May 2018, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) issued Controlled Area Notices for the Waitākere Ranges and parts of the Hunua Ranges (both in the Auckland region). Before you visit these Controlled Areas, make sure you're familiar with the conditions of entry and what you need to do to help save our kauri.

An invasive disease

Kauri dieback is caused by the fungus-like pathogen Phytophthora agathidicida. It spreads with soil movement, including:

on footwear and other clothing and gear

on vehicles driven in affected areas

by animals – including wild pigs, stock and pets.

Kauri trees can be infected for a long time before they show any signs of the disease. Most, if not all, infected trees die.

There is no known cure

Without any cure, the only way we can save our kauri forests is to contain the disease in its current locations and stop its spread into healthy areas.

A coordinated effort

Controlling the spread of kauri dieback, regardless of who owns the land the kauri trees are on, is critical to ensuring these trees remain standing.

The Kauri Dieback Management Programme is a collaborative partnership, coordinated by MPI and involving relevant councils, the Department of Conservation, and kaitiaki (guardians) of areas where kauri are found.